MAT-SU BOROUGH, Alaska (KTUU) — The Matanuska-Susitna Borough is seeing a significant surge in new construction, with a total of 768 new single-family homes built this year — the highest number since 2018. This marks a noticeable increase in the construction sector and highlights a strong recovery and growth within the region.

“It’s remarkable to see these numbers year after year,” said Matanuska-Susitna Borough Manager Mike Brown. “It’s exciting to see that new construction count, and again, it supports that increase in population and the demand for these services that are out there.”

This growth is largely attributed to population expansion, with the borough experiencing a boost of over 2,000 people between 2023 and 2024. As the region attracts more residents, the demand for housing and infrastructure continues to climb. According to the state, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough led the state in population growth, particularly driven by its affordability and larger lot sizes compared to urban areas.

“From what we’ve seen recently with the Department of Labor – population statistics – it looks like that growth will continue for the next couple of decades,” Brown explained. “There’s an increasing interest in having more acreage with homes, and with that comes the appeal of a higher standard of living.”

The surge in new homes is not only driven by population growth but also reflects the broader trend of people seeking homes with more space and a better quality of life. As new residents move in, they are drawn to the borough’s appealing blend of nature, affordability, and a more rural lifestyle.

In addition to the rise in housing construction, the borough has also noted a significant uptick in property values. The average appraisal of single-family homes rose by 5.03% last year, reaching an average of $388,091. This increase signals strong demand and a healthy market, as well as a sign of the area's continued appeal for long-term investment.

The borough’s planning department anticipates that this construction boom will continue as more people choose the Mat-Su area for its expansive land and the lifestyle it offers. There are also plans for additional infrastructure improvements to support the growing population, ensuring the region remains an attractive destination for families and businesses alike.

The continued expansion of Mat-Su Borough reflects both the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid growth. Officials are optimistic that as long as the region continues to provide the necessary infrastructure and services, it will be able to maintain this positive trend of construction and development for years to come.